The American Society of Ocularistry developed the College of Ocularistry (COO) in November 2017 to function under the auspices of the ASO and the ASO Board of Directors. The clinical aspect of the College’s curriculum begins when the Intern becomes involved with the fitting and fabrication of ocular prosthetics, whether under the supervision of a Board Approved Diplomate Ocularist (BADO) or through experience.

The curriculum includes courses and workshops related to the entire scope of an Ocularists practice.

Interns of the College of Ocularistry are required to take an experience level examination (ELE) at specific intervals during their training to verify their level of training.

Seven areas covered in the curriculum:

1.Fitting theory

2.Materials

3.Processing and fabrication techniques

4.Iris and sclera tinting techniques

5.Orbital anatomy and physiology

6.Patient care and office hygiene

7.Office management and communication techniques

The courses and workshops are conducted at the Annual and Mid-Year meetings Conferences of the ASO COO. The Annual Meeting, occurring in the fall, is held in conjunction with the American Academy of Ophthalmology in a city chosen by the Academy.

Each course includes a lecture by an individual or a panel, usually with some type of visual presentation followed by questions from the audience. Some courses have examinations.

Each workshop provides an opportunity for members to have a hands-on experience working with various techniques and materials. Some preparation of material brought to the course may be required.

Free papers on current subjects pertaining to an Ocularist’s practice are presented by knowledgeable health care practitioners.

The entire core curriculum is repeated every five years.

Instructors

The ASO Board of Directors appoints the College’s Education Chairs who, together with various education committee members, select specific qualified instructors for the courses offered. The instructors are selected from the general membership, medical affiliates, oculoplastic surgeons, physicians and ancillary ophthalmic technicians, nurses or health care professionals.